Bashmachkin

Bashmachkin is a fictional character created by Nikolai Gogol, a prominent Russian writer. He is the titular protagonist of Gogol's short story "The Overcoat," first published in 1842. Bashmachkin is a humble, low-ranking civil servant in St. Petersburg, dedicated to his work as a copyist. He is characterized by his poverty, his timid and unassuming nature, and his singular passion for his work.

The central event in Bashmachkin's life revolves around the necessity of acquiring a new overcoat. His old one is in such poor condition that it can no longer provide adequate warmth, and his superiors are unsympathetic. The acquisition of the new overcoat becomes an obsession for Bashmachkin, requiring him to make significant sacrifices in his meager budget. The new garment brings him a fleeting sense of pride and dignity, altering his demeanor and even inspiring him to venture out more socially.

However, his newfound joy is short-lived. The overcoat is stolen, and despite his desperate attempts to seek justice through official channels, he is met with bureaucratic indifference and cruelty. This experience breaks Bashmachkin, leading to his illness and eventual death. The story explores themes of social injustice, the dehumanizing effects of bureaucracy, and the profound impact of seemingly small things on an individual's life. Bashmachkin has become a symbol of the oppressed and overlooked individual within society.